Buying from small businesses strengthens the local economy and reduces our carbon footprint, the gases that get left behind after most of our everyday activities and contaminate the environment.
In April, carbon emissions decreased by approximately 17% around the world, according to the Global Carbon Project due to lockdown. But those numbers are on the rise again because restrictions have been lifted and we’re back to using transportation and worldwide commerce.
Choosing to shop from places that do not require overseas transfers is a small step to take care of our environment.
Even if you shop from your laptop or phone, buying locally brings a personalized experience. In order to promote an ecological economy, all the stores on this list are sustainable. Many of the products are handmade or made with eco-friendly materials.
All in all, these initiatives and creations are treating nature with care and supporting the community — which is what the holidays are all about.
We divided the stores into five categories: self-care, nature, clothes, accessories, and art + stickers.